Phonics, Spelling, & Grammar Resources

Calling all primary school teachers! Are you ready to enchant your phonics lessons with a touch of magic? Look no further! Our treasure trove is bursting with delightful activities tailored just for you – introducing our “UR-Controlled Vowel Phonics Activities.” Dive into the captivating world of sneaky vowels that love to dance to the tune of the BOSSY “R”!

Inside our magical collection, you’ll find a plethora of resources designed especially for your little learners. From engaging printables to interactive games, from creative worksheets to hands-on activities, we’ve curated everything you need to keep your students captivated and enthusiastic about mastering those tricky “R-Controlled Vowels.”

But here’s the best part – these R Controlled Vowels Activities are not just fun; they’re also incredibly practical! They seamlessly fit into your literacy centres, making teaching a breeze. So, wave your teaching worries goodbye and let the magic of our resources transform your phonics lessons into unforgettable learning adventures!

What are “R” Controlled Vowels and Bossy “R”?

“R-Controlled Vowels” are the versatile chameleons of the phonics realm. These are the vowels that love to transform their sounds when the “R” steps into the picture. In this dynamic duo, the “R” takes the lead and collaborates with the vowel to create a distinctive, blended sound. Some teachers affectionately refer to these as the “Bossy R” words.

Now, let’s meet the intriguing “Bossy R” – a character that adds a touch of whimsy to the world of phonics and language learning. This mischievous “R” has a knack for bossing around the vowels, making them change their sounds when it’s nearby. In words like “car,” “fern,” or “stir,” the “Bossy R” exerts its influence on the vowel that stands just before it, resulting in a fascinating twist. The “Bossy R” character injects an element of fun into phonics lessons and helps students grasp the concept that vowel sounds can shift when they team up with “R.”

Discovering the secrets of the “Bossy R” is akin to unlocking a hidden code in the world of words, and it’s a crucial concept for unravelling the complexities of the English language. Dive into the enchanting world of phonics with your students and watch as they uncover the magic of the “Bossy R”!

Common Problems with the “UR” Sound

Now, let’s address the charming hiccups our students often encounter when working with the “UR” sound.

1. Pronunciation Puzzles:
   • Students might have trouble pronouncing “UR,” sometimes saying it as “er” or “ar.”
   • Solution: Encourage them to practice and emphasize the “UR” sound. The tongue position is crucial, so help them visualize it with a tongue diagram.
2. Spelling Surprises:
   • Some kids may mix up “UR” words with other vowel sounds, leading to spelling hiccups.
   • Solution: Create word lists and flashcards dedicated to “UR” words. Regular spelling drills will help them get it right.
3. Blending Bumps:
   • Blending “UR” with other consonants to create complete words can be a puzzle for some.
   • Solution: Introduce word families featuring “UR” words. Words like “fur,” “curl,” and “hurt” make the learning process feel like a fun game.

So, fellow educators, teaching the “UR” sound doesn’t have to be all business. With a dash of “bossy R” drama, some rhyming games, and engaging activities, you’ll have your students mastering those cool “UR” words in no time. Learning phonics can be fun, and your students will become confident readers and writers. Keep up the fantastic work, and happy teaching!

Below you will find our collection of teaching resources for the UR” controlled Vowel. Click the images to download them!